11 Baby Names That Are Banned In Other Countries

The nameCharlotte might be fit for a princess, but the lovely sounding moniker isn't welcome everywhere. In fact, Portugalspecifically bansparents from using it, along with other popular picks like Emily, William, and Michael.

The republic's not alone. Denmark, Iceland, Hungary, and Saudi Arabia also enforce specific naming conventions wherecertain ones might not make the cut. Check out some of the most interesting offenders below:

Catherine

While Caterina gets the thumbs up, the Anglicised version is another no-go in Portugal. To keep all of the strict laws straight, the government maintains an83-page listof approved and unapproved options.

Peter

Denmarkis another country that maintains a specific register. Both countries prefer monikers that fit their native languages and cultures, so expats might be out of luck if they're hoping to give their children family names.

Sarah

Not to be outdone, aspecial naming committeedetermines the "introduction of new given names into the culture of Iceland." While Sarah's not on the official list, parents can fill out a special form and request it get added to the register.

Linda

In 2014, Saudi Arabia's Interior Ministry released alist of 51 banned namesreportedly not in line with "social traditions." While most selections appear to have religious connotations, foreign-sounding options like Linda also got prohibited.

George

Sorry,Prince George. Both of theroyal childrenactually go against Portuguese naming laws, along with their dad William.

Harriet

There are currently no Icelandic babies with the English name meaning "home ruler"—at least not yet.

John

It's themost popular boy's name of the last 500 yearsin the States, but Denmark omits it from its official list.

Stephen

Hungary also maintains aregistry of approved namesthat adhere to its native language. So while Stefán gets approved, the predominant English spelling won't work.

Thomas

Tom, Thomas, and Thomás all get denied under Portuguese law.

Maya

Saudi parents need to steer clear of this trending girl's name as well.

Lucifer

It's unclear if it's officially banned, but a couple in Germany wanted toname their son Luciferand a judge quickly put a stop to that. The name is also forbidden in New Zealand.

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This article originally appeared on Goodhousekeeping.com. Minor edits have been made by the Cosmo.ph editors.